What is conformational stereoisomers?

Stereoisomers

• The isomerism generated by non-similar configurations of atoms or functional groups belonging to an atom in space is known as stereoisomers.
• These isomers have identical constitutions to one another but their atoms are arranged differently geometrically.
• Enantiomers and diastereomers are the two forms of stereoisomers that can be found.

Conformational stereoisomers

• Conformational isomerism is a type of stereoisomerism in chemistry.
• In this case, isomers can be interconverted simply by rotating around formally single(sigma) bonds.

Types of Conformational stereoisomers

• Eclipsed conformation: It is defined as a state in which hydrogen atoms are connected to two carbons regions that are as close together as possible.
• Staggered confirmation: It occurs when hydrogen atoms connected to two carbons are as far apart as possible with regard to one other.

Example

Conformers of Ethane

Alkanes are able to form conformers as they have allows the rotation of a single bond to give different arrangements which are termed conformers.